Click on the advert above to visit the company web site

Product category: Pneumatic Actuators, Motors, Accessories
News Release from: Festo | Subject: Drives and automation components
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial Team on 16 May 2000

Precision cylinders with long-stroke
accuracy

New drives, handling components, positioning modules and controllers were previewed by Festo at the Hanover Fair.

Automation specialist Festo used the recent Hanover Fair to unveil several key product innovations and automation solutions targeted to hit the market later this year Among the products on show were drives, handling components, positioning modules and controllers

An extension to the DFP range of precision guided cylinders headed the drives innovations.

Designed to offer long-stroke accuracy with excellent service life, the new DFP-10 and DFP-16 (10mm and 16mm diameters) draw on the proven characteristics of Festo's standard units but integrate a high-quality precision guide into the head of each cylinder.

These products replicate the accuracy of the larger DFP models (diameters from 20mm to 80mm) but offer ultra compact dimensions for small workpieces.

Both models also incorporate position sensors.

New handling modules offer greater user configuration options.

The HMPL range comprises three units of 12, 16 and 20mm piston diameter.

These linear axes offer stroke lengths from 30mm to 200mm and are designed for rapid deployment in Handling and Assembly Technology applications.

Additional automation functions that can be added to the units as options include: intermediate position, intermediate position with external stop, cartridge clamp for safety, and a stop system with sensor featuring progressive shock absorbers and adjustable end position.

The compact HMPL modules deliver very short travel times due to a low deadweight, and high repetition accuracy at high speeds.

Several axes can be combined to create sophisticated pick and place units.

A new all-digital servo positioning controller, the SEC-AC, demonstrates Festo's continuing commitment to the electrical positioning market.

The new unit is compatible with Festo servo motors for toothed belt and spindle drives.

Automatic current regulator adjustment and resolver identification also allows easy connection to other manufacturer's motors.

High levels of integration and advanced functionality put the new SEC-AC ahead of the field in ease-of-use and cost effectiveness.

With internal braking resistor, braking chopper and mains filter, the unit is CE compliant without additional external components.

Interfaces include RS232 for programming (via Windows PC software), `10V for setpoint and encoder feedback, digital I/Os, analog outputs, frequency input, and CANopen fieldbus.

The addition of a new end-position controller, the SPC11, expands Festo's range of 'Smart Soft Stop' pneumatic options.

The system allows faster travel times between mechanical stops and improves end-position-cushioning characteristics.

The result is cycle times up to 30% faster, reduced vibration and prolonged cylinder life.

SPC11 also permits fast travel to two freely selectable intermediate positions without fixed stops.

Integrated acknowledgement functions for both intermediate positions can be used to activate subsequent functions.

Typical applications include handling and assembly technology with requirements for intermediate positioning.

Smart Soft Stop also makes it possible to substitute inexpensive pneumatic components for complex electromechanical drives.

Used in conjunction with Festo's DSMI module, the SPC11 opens further opportunities by applying Smart Soft Stop technology to rotary drive applications - especially those demanding intermediate positions with low vibration and fast cycle times.

Topping Festo's controller preview was the new Front End Controller, the IPC FEC Compact.

Billed as 'Programmable logic control made easy', the FEC Compact minicontroller offers extensive program and data memory capacities.

With the IPC (Industrial PC) on a single chip at its heart, the FEC Compact provides PLC and PC compatible mini control in a single housing with broad network compatibility.

It is available in 110/230V AC and 24V DC variants with relay and solid-state outputs.

Additional expansion modules provide up to 100 I/Os.

The controller's compact dimensions allow it to be easily fitted into any system - even DIN rail mounted.

Programming options include Festo's intuitive FST software, MULTIPROG wt for international standardised programming to IEC 6 1131-3, graphic programming with iCon-L block language, or high level C/C++ language.

Festo also used Hanover to launch its Innovation 2000 catalogue - a sought-after piece of literature that provides a comprehensive round-up of the company's forthcoming additions to the industry's broadest range of automation solutions. Request a free brochure from Festo ...

• Festo: contact details and other news
• Email this article to a colleague
• Register for the free Engineeringtalk email newsletter
• Engineeringtalk Home Page

Search the Pro-Talk network of sites

Put your news on Engineeringtalk  |   Advertise  |   Get the free Engineeringtalk newsletter  |   Engineeringtalk Home
About Engineeringtalk  |   Copyright © 2000-2008 Pro-Talk Ltd, UK